What is NETFILE?
NETFILE is an electronic tax-filingservice that allows you to file your personal income tax and benefit return directly to the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and/or Revenue Quebec (MRQ).
Can I NETFILE if I use H&R Block's Online Tax Program?
Yes, you can NETFILE your tax return as long as you have a CRA - and/or MRQ-provided access code. This access code is provided to you in the CRA package mailed out to all taxpayers during January of each year.
If you are preparing a Canadian tax return for the first time, you will not be eligible for NETFILE. Once you have finished preparing your online tax return, simply print it out and mail it to your regional CRA office.
For more information, visit the CRA’s website or the MRQ’s website.
Why should I consider NETFILE?
If you are eligible for NETFILE, it’s a good idea to file using this method for several reasons:
- Shorter processing time. The CRA can process your tax return almost immediately and send your refund (if applicable) much faster. If the CRA already has your direct deposit information, your refund should be deposited into your account within two weeks of filing.
- Greater control. The CRA verifies returns submitted via NETFILE immediately. If there are errors, they will be presented to you on the NETFILE website. You can then return to H&R Block online tax program to correct your errors and retransmit your return on the NETFILE website.
- Proof of receipt. The acknowledgement page you get from the CRA is your proof of receipt, and it comes to you immediately after using the NETFILE service. You can save this page on your own hard drive.
- Hassle free. You don’t have to bother sorting out and separating all your slips and receipts prior to submitting your return to the CRA. Please note that it is your responsibility to keep slips and receipts in a secure location in case the CRA does ask to see them.
- No mail. There is no need to bother with envelopes, stamps or postal delays. This saves you time, money and energy.
Can I NETFILE a return for a year other than 2009?
No. NETFILE service is available for the current tax year only.
Do I need to NETFILE my return and my spouse’s separately?
Yes. NETFILE your return using your own CRA access code, and then NETFILE your spouse’s using his or her unique access code. Each of you will receive a separate confirmation number from the CRA.
How do I send my supporting documents when filing my tax return electronically to the CRA or MRQ using their NETFILE service?
When you file your tax return through NETFILE, you do not have to submit your receipts, information slips or other supporting papers. However, it is your responsibility to keep this material safe and available in case the CRA or MRQ requests it at a later date.
What if I discover a mistake after I’ve filed?
You can't use NETFILE to change your tax return. Nor should you submit another entire tax return. You should send a letter to your tax centre requesting an adjustment to your return, or you can complete the CRA's T1 Adjustment Request (T1ADJ) to request the change.
When preparing your letter, be sure to provide your name, address, and Social Insurance Number, and indicate the tax years to be adjusted. Also, because the CRA wouldn't have received any paper documents with your NETFILE return, include the receipts and supporting documents for the original claim and the changes you want to make. For example, if you want to claim an additional charitable donation, you have to submit all charitable donation receipts, not just the receipt(s) for the additional amount.
H&R Block can also help you file an adjustment. Simply bring a printed copy of your return, your slips, and the item that needs to be adjusted to any of our locations, and, for or a small fee, we'll take care of it for you.
